Tokyo to Kamakura: Train Routes, JR Pass, Cost, and Distance

How to Get to Kamakura from Tokyo

The old capital of Kamakura, accessible from Tokyo in just one hour, has a relaxed ambiance with its many temples, shrines, and rich greenery.

Tsurugaoka-Hachimangu Shrine, famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms, Kotoku-in Temple with its Great Buddha statue (Daibutsu), and Hasedera Temple, known for its elegant June hydrangeas, are all found in the Kamakura area.

We introduce the easiest and best ways to reach Kamakura from Tokyo.

Tokyo to Kamakura, Routes, Fees and more

1. From Tokyo Station or Shinagawa: JR Yokosuka Line
2. from Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, or Shibuya: JR Shonan Shinjuku Line
3. Explore Kamakura on the Scenic Enoden Line

Frequently Asked Questions
- Does the JR Pass Cover the Journey from Tokyo to Kamakura?
- Can I Go from Tokyo to Kamakura by Bus?
- Does the Bullet Train Go to Kamakura?
- What is the Distance from Tokyo to Kamakura?

Take JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station

The JR Yokosuka Line is the fastest and most straightforward way to reach Kamakura from Tokyo. The train offers a direct connection to Kamakura Station from two major hubs:

- From Tokyo Station: The trip takes approximately 57 minutes and costs 1,040 yen one-way.

- From Shinagawa Station: The trip takes approximately 47 minutes and costs 810 yen one-way.

Take JR Shonan Shinjuku Line from Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, or Shibuya

If you are traveling from Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ikebukuro, the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line provides the most convenient direct access to Kamakura.

The line's name refers to "Shonan," the coastal region of Kanagawa Prefecture facing Sagami Bay, where Kamakura is located. While the fare is a flat 1,040 yen from all three stations, travel times vary slightly:
- From Ikebukuro: 63 minutes
- From Shinjuku: 57 minutes
- From Shibuya: 52 minutes

Double Check the Train's Destination Before Riding

Please be careful not to go in the wrong direction when taking the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line.

If it’s bound for Zushi, Yokosuka, or Kurihama, the train goes directly to Kamakura. However, if the train is bound for Kozu or Odawara, you have to change trains at Ofuna Station and get on the JR Yokosuka Line. Please double-check the destination of your train before you get on.

You can catch JR Shonan Shinjuku Line trains on Platform 2 at Ikebukuro Station, Platform 4 at Shinjuku Station, or Platform 4 at Shibuya Station.

Explore Kamakura on the Scenic Enoden Line

If you plan to explore the surrounding coastal areas or want to hop on and off to stroll through local neighborhoods, taking the Enoden from Fujisawa Station is your best option.

The Enoden is a charming, 10-kilometer railway connecting Fujisawa and Kamakura. This historic line is famous throughout Japan and abroad for its nostalgic atmosphere and stunning coastal views of Sagami Bay.

The journey from Fujisawa to Kamakura takes 37 minutes and costs 310 yen.

The Enoden is a favorite for travelers because it offers a scenic, nostalgic experience that major JR lines simply can't match.

As the train winds along the coast, you can enjoy gorgeous ocean views directly from your window, making the journey as much of an attraction as the destination.

Its local pace is perfect for those seeking flexibility while soaking in the classic, "old Japan" atmosphere that has made this line famous worldwide.

From Shinjuku Station to Fujisawa Station

If you want to go directly to Fujisawa Station, take the Odakyu Odawara Line Express bound for Fujisawa. It takes 56 minutes and the fare is 600 yen.

The Shonan Shinjuku Line Rapid Train will also take you directly to Fujisawa Station, but the fare is more expensive (1,040 yen).

From Tokyo Station to Fujisawa Station

If you want to go from Tokyo Station to Fujisawa Station, take the JR Tokaido Line bound for Numazu or Atami. These trains go directly to Fujisawa Station. The fare is 1,040 yen and you can take the train from Platform 10. It takes about 50 minutes.

The Enoden is a local train that passes through peaceful residential areas and is perhaps one of the most scenic train routes in eastern Japan. Why not enjoy the nostalgic scenic route on the way to visiting the old capital, Kamakura?

If you would like to read more information on the Enoden and the surrounding area, check these articles:

Does the JR Pass Cover the Journey from Tokyo to Kamakura?

Yes, the Japan Rail (JR) Pass covers the train route between Tokyo and Kamakura. Specifically, it includes the JR Yokosuka Line and Shonan-Shinjuku Line services that run from Tokyo Station (or nearby stations) directly to Kamakura Station. The JR pass is a cost-effective way to travel between these two cities if you're planning multiple JR train journeys.

Note: The JR Pass does not cover private rail lines such as the Odakyu Line, which also serves Kamakura. If you choose to use the Odakyu Line, you'll need a separate ticket.

Can I Go from Tokyo to Kamakura by Bus?

While bus services between Tokyo and Kamakura do exist, they are generally less convenient and less time-efficient than the train. Fares vary by operator but typically start around 1,000 yen, with travel times often exceeding two hours depending on traffic conditions.

For most travelers, the train remains the superior choice for both speed and ease of travel.

Does the Bullet Train Go to Kamakura?

No, the Shinkansen (bullet train) does not go directly to Kamakura. The nearest Shinkansen stations are Odawara or Atami. To reach Kamakura from Tokyo using the bullet train, you'd first take the Shinkansen to Odawara and then transfer to a local train or bus to Kamakura. This is less practical for a day trip; regular JR or private train lines are more direct.

What is the Distance from Tokyo to Kamakura?

The approximate distance between Tokyo Station and Kamakura Station is about 50 kilometers (31 miles). Traveling by train typically takes around 50 minutes on JR lines, making Kamakura a popular and easily accessible day-trip destination from Tokyo.